Teen dies after Auckland air-gun shooting

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Police are investigating the death of an 18-year-old man who was shot with an air gun in South Auckland last night.

It is understood a group of five youths were drinking at an address in Manurewa while playing with an air rifle and an air pistol when the incident took place.

Medical treatment was administered at the scene before the teenager was taken to Middlemore Hospital. He died shortly after arrival.

While police said there were no indications the shooting was deliberate, officers would investigate to determine if anyone would face charges as a result of the death.

Both firearms were recovered at the scene and police were not seeking anyone else.

Counties Manakau police Detective Inspector Dave Lynch said air guns were powerful weapons that needed to be handled the same way as other firearms. They should not be used by anyone under the influence of alcohol.

An autopsy was expected to be carried out today. The teenager's name will be released tomorrow.